Philip S Deep Sky Observer

Useful for the amateur deep sky observer, this work contains three essential items for exploring the universe beyond our Solar System: Philip's Deep Sky Observer's Guide, Philip's Deep Sky Chart, and Philip's Deep Sky Calendar.

Philip's Deep Sky Observer's Guide is a practical introduction to deep sky observing, explaining in straightforward, non-technical language what is meant by the 'deep sky', and how to observe the Universe beyond our Solar System. Many people have been inspired by the incredible images returned from the Hubble Space Telescope and wish to see such objects for themselves. While the views through Earth-based telescopes may not be as spectacular as those obtained from space, it is a huge thrill to look at such famous objects as the Triangulum Galaxy or the Horsehead Nebula. Deep sky observing has become a very popular activity for skywatchers. Philip's Deep Sky Observer's Guide is suitable for observers with small- to medium-sized telescopes, or even binoculars. It begins by introducing the basics of observing and explaining what equipment is required. Each type of deep sky object is then dealt with chapter by chapter - galaxies, globular clusters, diffuse nebulae, open clusters, double stars, planetary nebulae and supernova remnants. Each chapter recommends a number of objects or 'targets' to view, and the author describes how to find them and what to expect to see, as well as providing important data and tips for drawing or photographing the target. A complete set of star maps marks all the objects included in the book, and additional charts are provided for targets that are tricky to locate.

Deep-sky observing is easily the most popular field for amateur astronomers. The big problem faced by non-professional observers is what to look at - what is visible at a particular time of year. The Deep-Sky Observers Year is a month-by-month guide to the best objects to view. Objects are given a "star rating" according to how difficult they are to observe or image with a particular size of telescope. The book includes many images produced by amateur astronomers, as well as photographs from NASA, ESA, and ESO. There is background information about the objects, along with lots of useful tips, hints, and resources.

The perfect reference book for anyone who owns a telescope or a pair of binoculars but doesn't know what to look for amid the stars and constellations. Written by deep-sky aficionado Phil Harrington, this handy guide describes the best double and multiple stars, variable stars, open and globular clusters, nebulae, and galaxies.

'Deep Sky' refers to the universe beyond our own solar system. Using binoculars or telescopes, any sky-gazer can become a deep sky observer. Deep Sky Observer's Guide looks beyond individual stars to target: Star clusters Double Stars Nebulae Galaxies. The Deep Sky Observer's Guide introduces the basics of observing and explains what equipment is required. A chapter is devoted to each type of deep sky target. There are more than 200 such objects featured, with 126 color illustrations and star-finder charts. The Deep Sky Observer Guide is also available in a convenient pack (ISBN: 1-55407-025-2) that comes with deep sky charts and an observing calendar.

Philip's Guide to Stars and Planets provides all the information you need to study the night sky with the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope. It includes a detailed Moon map and a complete atlas of the constellations, and is suitable for observers in both the northern and southern hemispheres. A straightforward and comprehensive handbook, it opens with chapters on the Moon, the Sun, the planets, the stars and galaxies, as well as information on astrophotography, telescopes and an explanation of the apparent movement of the night sky. The second section of the book comprises a full set of constellation maps, showing all stars visible to the naked eye as well as the brighter nebulae and galaxies. Each map is accompanied by a description of that particular constellation, pointing the observer to the most interesting stars and deep-sky objects in that area of the sky. Tables give the co-ordinates, magnitudes and distances of the brightest stars in each constellation. The book concludes with a comprehensive glossary, and timelines of astronomy and space exploration. Philip's Guide to Stars and Planets is a dependable, accurate and attractive reference source for all amateur astronomers.

Astronomy enthusiasts will all appreciate the detailed yet easily-assimilated description of star clusters, how they were formed as our Milky Way galaxy, how they evolved, and how they are classified. The latest research has revealed a vast amount of fascinating information about the clusters, along with some spectacular photographs. Modern commercially-made telescopes enable amateur astronomers to see a surprising amount of detail, and to record – using CCD cameras, video, webcams or even film – some remarkably beautiful and detailed images. Contained here also is detailed information on using refractors, reflectors, and, of course, Meade and Celestron’s ubiquitous range of computer-controlled SCT telescopes.

This is a practical atlas for observers using binoculars or a small telescope. It contains all the maps you need to learn your way around the night sky, whether you want to find remote galaxies, sketch lunar craters or make estimates of variable stars